Grand Theft Auto Online: Rockstar’s answer to GTA 6 and beyond?

GTA V and it’s counterpart, GTA Online, has completely changed the scope of eventual game sequels. Released in 2013 and spanning 3 console generations, the momentum of GTA V isn’t slowing down. In 2020 alone, the game sold over 20 million units and brought in more than $200 million dollars in revenue. With the impending release of GTA 6 either coming very soon or 5 years from now, It begs the question: If this game still has popularity 8 years later, does Rockstar really need to make a GTA 7 or beyond?

Take a look at one particular game that relies on online services, Destiny 2. D2, which is now free to play, offers new expansions to the base game that adds new storylines and sometimes a new planet to play on, a formula that actually works for Bungie. Instead of releasing a Destiny 3, Bungie has given an extended lease on life to Destiny 2 by expanding a game, already well developed, for 3 more years. Yes you do have to pay for the new expansions, and oftentimes, those can be just as expensive as a new game. But the fact that you aren’t required to buy those expansions to enjoy the game still gives you a lot you can do such as Crucible, Iron Banner, and the beginning missions of the game. GTA Online with GTA 6 can evolve into that direction of development. GTA Online will be a separate standalone app on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S as it is, so focus can be put on creating a great single player experience with GTA 6 while GTA Online focuses on expanding the existing game for all to enjoy.

Imagine if GTA Online offers expansions that give you access to other areas such as Vice City, Liberty City, San Andreas, London, and many other places as well as the setting of GTA 6 at the same time, with a simple fast travel to each location. New missions can help online players team up and explore parts of the GTA universe we all fell in love with, while keeping the experience fresh to even the veteran players. New expansions can be released with new stories featuring characters from the past who are ingrained in the history of each city. And of course since GTA Online is a microtransaction king, they can continue to sell cash currency to players similar to how players in Destiny 2 buy silver to shop for cool items from Eververse. While online continuations of this magnitude has it’s opposition due to the dislike of endless expansions and season passes with the general belief that games that seem unfinished rely too much on these, games like Destiny 2 and World of Warcraft have proven that you can keep a base game going for years by releasing expansions that add new value and gameplay, while keeping the experience familiar but fresh. GTA Online can use the same model, extending its life for many years to come.